ACIAR is a statutory authority that operates as part of the Australian Government's development cooperation programs. The Centre encourages Australia's agricultural scientists to use their skills for the benefit of developing countries and Australia.

ACIAR funds research projects that are developed within a framework reflecting the priorities of Australia's aid program and national research strengths, together with the agricultural research and development priorities of partner countries.

Our mandate directs activities to developing countries in five regions: Papua New Guinea and the Pacific Islands, Southeast Asia, North Asia, South Asia and Southern Africa. Research is also allocated across regions through funding to the international agricultural research centres.

Our functions are to:

• commission research into improving sustainable agricultural production in developing countries
• fund project related training
• communicate the results of funded research
• conduct and fund development activities related to research programs
• administer the Australian Government's contribution to the International Agricultural Research Centres.